Sportswriter Drew Ellis examines the rivalry between Michigan State and U-of-Michigan. Impartial to both, he will judge who is a step ahead or behind both on the football field and on the basketball court. Join in on the debate and follow him on Twitter @ellisdrew

Prediction: Penn
State appears to be a much better team that it was last season, but the Nittany
Lions haven’t faced the same type of talent that Michigan State has in
non-conference play. Michigan State has been a hard team to figure out, but
they do typically play to the level of their competition. I think the Spartans will
be up for the game, with it being the start of conference play, but Penn State
will bring their best as well. I see Michigan State winning, but Penn State
hanging around and keeping it interesting throughout. Michigan State 77, Penn State 70

Monday, December 30, 2013

It’s been quite a season for Michigan State, but I don’t see
it ending on a positive note.

The Spartans have worked hard to get back to the Rose Bowl,
and that in itself could be all the accomplishment that Michigan State is
looking for.

Stanford has been in this situation, while MSU can clearly
get lost in the moment.

It doesn’t help that the Spartans are without defensive
leader Max Bullough, either.

Stanford poses the toughest physical test Michigan State has
had this season. The Spartans have struggled against physical running backs,
and they will see one in this game in Tyler Gaffney. Unlike what Ohio State did
with Carlos Hyde, Stanford won’t stop feeding Gaffney. With Bullough out, the
Spartans are likely to have a tough time stopping the Cardinal ground game,
which should keep the MSU offense off the field.

If Stanford is able to control the ball on offense, it may
cause MSU to press on offense, which likely won’t go well. Connor Cook has been
composed this season, but is facing a tough defense. His mistakes will be
amplified against Stanford. While Jeremy Langford could have another solid
game, I don’t think he will be able to do enough on his own to win the game.

Ultimately, the experience of Stanford and the Cardinal’s
ability to match MSU’s physical play will lead them to victory.

About Me

I work for The Oakland Press as a sports writer and copy editor. I cover college football along with some prep sports. I spent six years covering Central Michigan University football, men's basketball, and baseball for The Morning Sun in Mt. Pleasant.